January 09

Wayne Munn was an American sportsman who gained fame as a University of Nebraska football star and later became a pioneering figure in professional wrestling. Born in 1896, he earned All-American honors as a tackle before transitioning to the wrestling ring in the early 1920s. With his size and athleticism, Munn quickly rose through the ranks and captured the World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship in 1925. His title victories helped popularize the sport during its formative years and opened doors for future athlete-turned-wrestlers. After retiring from competition, Munn pursued ventures in the oil business and community activities. Though his life was cut short by illness in 1931 at the age of 34, his role in professional wrestling’s early development is still remembered. Today, he is recognized as one of the sport’s first crossover stars from American football.

Dimitrios Golemis was a Greek athlete who competed at the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. Born in 1874, he entered the marathon as a national favorite and finished second behind hometown hero Spyridon Louis. His silver medal run cemented his place in Olympic history and brought pride to Greece on the global sporting stage. Golemis also participated in other track events, showcasing his versatility as a distance runner. Beyond competition, he contributed to athletics as a coach and mentor for young Greek runners. His dedication helped lay the foundation for Greece’s long-standing tradition in Olympic sport. Golemis passed away in 1941, remembered as one of his country’s pioneering sports figures.

Born in 1876 in Ohio, Flick made his MLB debut with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1898. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in batting average, stolen bases, and slugging percentage. Flick starred for the Athletics and later the Cleveland Naps, earning three consecutive top-ten MVP finishes. After retiring as a player in 1910, he scouted talent for several teams, helping shape early 20th-century baseball. In 1963, Flick was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his enduring contributions. He passed away in 1971, remembered as one of the game's early greats.

Lewis 'Spud' Chandler played his entire Major League Baseball career with the New York Yankees from 1937 to 1947. Renowned for his fastball and control, he posted a league-leading 20 wins and a 1.64 ERA in his MVP season of 1943. Chandler served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, missing the 1944 and 1945 seasons. Upon returning, he continued to contribute as a reliable starter, helping the Yankees to multiple World Series championships. After retiring, Chandler worked as a coach and scout, sharing his expertise with younger players. His career record of 109–43 and 3.09 ERA reflect his dominance on the mound. Chandler was inducted into various sports halls of fame and remains a celebrated figure in Yankees history.

Born in 1964 in Victoria, Australia, Andy Caldecott was a champion off-road motorcyclist known for his daring riding style. He won multiple Australian Safari championships and earned podium finishes in the grueling Dakar Rally. Caldecott was beloved by fans for his perseverance and camaraderie among competitors. During the 2006 Dakar Rally in Mauritania, he suffered a fatal crash that led to increased safety measures in the event. His legacy endures through the Andy Caldecott Memorial Fund supporting riders and their families, celebrating his passion for rally racing.

Born in 1977, Elmer Symons was a passionate off-road motorcycle competitor known for tackling some of the world's toughest rally races. He participated in the infamous Dakar Rally, earning respect for his determination and skill across shifting desert terrains. Symons tragically lost his life in a crash during the 2007 Dakar Rally in Morocco. His death highlighted the extreme risks of endurance racing and led to calls for improved rider safety. Symons is remembered by the rally community for his adventurous spirit and commitment to the sport.

Brian Curvis turned professional in 1957 and quickly made his mark in the welterweight division. He captured the British welterweight title in 1960 and added the Commonwealth belt a year later, successfully defending both on multiple occasions. Known for his agile footwork and powerful jab, Curvis compiled an impressive record before retiring in 1963. He remained active in boxing as a coach and mentor, nurturing young talent in Wales. His legacy endures as one of Britain’s standout fighters of his era.

Roy Tarpley was an American basketball star who helped revolutionize the role of the Sixth Man. A standout at the University of Michigan, he was drafted seventh overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 1986. Tarpley earned NBA Sixth Man of the Year honors in 1988 with his dynamic play off the bench. His career was marred by off-court struggles, leading to suspensions for substance abuse. He revived his career overseas, winning a EuroLeague title with Olympiacos in 1997. He passed away on January 9, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of immense talent and unfulfilled promise.

Kato Ottio was born in Port Moresby in 1994 and quickly rose through local rugby league ranks. He played as a center and winger for the Papua New Guinea Hunters in the Queensland Cup, showcasing speed and skill. Ottio earned his first international cap with Papua New Guinea's Kumuls in 2016, becoming a fan favorite. His performances led to a contract with the NRL's Canberra Raiders for the 2018 season. Tragically, Ottio fell ill and passed away on January 9, 2018, at the age of 23. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the rugby league community. Ottio is remembered for his joyful spirit and the promise of a bright sporting career.

Black Bart (1948-2025) was an American professional wrestler famed for his tough cowboy gimmick. He debuted in the 1970s and became a fixture of the southern U.S. wrestling circuits. Performing under a black mask and cowboy hat, he captured regional tag team championships and thrilled fans with his physical style. He competed in major promotions like NWA and WCW, engaging in high-profile feuds that cemented his reputation. His showmanship and in-ring presence made him a fan favorite throughout his career. After retiring in the 1990s, he remained a respected figure in wrestling history, inspiring future generations of athletes.